From the GDR icon to e-mobility: Schwalbe is taking back the streets!

From the GDR icon to e-mobility: Schwalbe is taking back the streets!

The Simson Schwalbe, officially known as the KR 51, has long since achieved cult status and is not only a popular nostalgic object, but also a highly sought-after conversion candidate for modern technology lovers. The Schwalbe embodies charming GDR industrial design and has a fascinating history that dates back to 1964. With over a million produced by 1986, there are still more than 150,000 Swallows on the streets of Germany, with their popularity being higher in the West than in the East. But now the iconic machine is becoming greener, because innovative inventors can convert their Schwalbe to an electric drive, as MAZ Online reports.

The Swallow Trio from Kleinmachnow provides an example from everyday life. Grandpa Wolfgang (72) and his son Axel (52) own Schwalben from 1965 and 1979, while grandson Felix Bardehle (22) restored his father's machine. The trained automotive mechatronics engineer got to work with a lot of skill: from sandblasting to powder coating to replacing all chassis parts - the Schwalbe now shines in fresh “Tesla red”. But the focus is not only on restoration, it is also being converted to electric drive. With a conversion kit from the Berlin company secondride GmbH, the essential components are available for a competitive 3000 euros.

Environmentally friendly conversion

The start-up secondride, which was founded three years ago, specializes in the production of high-quality conversion kits for GDR classics. The team of 15 employees develops products that not only combine nostalgic flair with the latest technology, but are also environmentally friendly. The conversion to electric drive offers a range of 60 to 80 kilometers, depending on the battery chosen, and a top speed of up to 60 km/h. The conversion will reduce CO2 emissions from 71 to 14 grams per kilometer, which cannot make an insignificant contribution, especially in times of climate change, as Mobility Talk highlights.

The new conversion kits are not only functional, but also visually appealing. The kit contains cast parts instead of plastic fragments as well as an improved lamp set for mopeds to increase safety and light output. Installing the kit is uncomplicated thanks to precise instructions and a comprehensive supply of spare parts. Through the Second Ride Community, converters and fans can exchange their experiences and support each other.

Customer feedback and successes

The feedback from the converters speaks for itself: enthusiastic user Bodo Jendreizik reports that the delivery of his conversion kit was initially delayed, but it was worth it. His conversion was successful, and DEKRA's acceptance of the changes also went extremely well. Robert Heinemann, another converter, emphasizes that his conversion of the Schwalbe KR 51/2 was very easy thanks to the high quality of the materials and the understandable instructions. This shows that the inventors at secondride are real professionals at work.

The Simson Schwalbe will not only be the e-bike of nostalgic hearts, but also a showcase project in terms of environmental awareness and technical sophistication. The trend towards switching to electric drives is increasing and making the hearts of classic car fans beat faster. After all, there is no need to change the original or forego driving fun - a real win for everyone involved! Further information about secondride's products can be found on their website at Second Ride.